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Waynesville Americorps volunteers welcome Texas 4000 riders

A team of 27 cyclists rolled into Waynesville Monday as a part of a cross-country ride to raise awareness for cancers.

The University of Texas cyclists, called Texas 4000, are taking part in on a 70-day ride that will end in Anchorage AK with one goal in mind — to fight cancer by raising funds and awareness of the devastating disease.
With over 1200 miles already logged into this grueling journey, the team rode from Springfield to Waynesville on Monday.

They left at 6:30 am and started arriving at Waynesville United Methodist Church by 4:00 pm. A team of AmeriCorps workers prepared a homemade meal of lasagna that was graciously consumed in the community center of the church.
Later, the riders relaxed in the shade or took a dip in the pool at the parsonage before retiring to bed by 8 pm.

“Texas 4000 is riding from Austin, TX to Anchorage, AK to spread hope, knowledge and charity which are our pillars. We spread hope by taking on something that is insurmountable as a metaphor for the fight against cancer. We spread knowledge by giving awareness and prevention presentations along the way. Charity, each rider is given the task of raising $4500 before starting the ride. The money raised will go towards cancer research and other resources. So far we have raised $560,000,” said Texas 4000 rider, Ross McGarity.

The ride has not been without its struggles. The team’s trailer broke down in Springfield and it may take a long as a week to fix. A few of the riders may have to come back on a van and pick up the trailer and then head back to join the rest of the team somewhere up north.

You can follow the team and find out more information at www.texas4000.org